Date: Nov, 3, 2024
Venue: Lotus Hotel
Organized by: OWS-DF in collaboration with the Somali Regional Health Bureau
On Nov, 3 2024 OWS-DF, in partnership with the Somali Regional Health Bureau, hosted an impactful advocacy and launching workshop for the Gavi TCA Project, an initiative aimed at strengthening immunization systems and aligning stakeholders on strategies to increase immunization coverage, particularly in underserved communities. The event brought together key regional and local leaders committed to advancing health and immunization initiatives,
Distinguished Participants
The workshop was attended by a diverse and influential group of stakeholders, including:
- Mr. Mehamud Abdi, Deputy Head of the Somali Regional Health Bureau
- Mr. Aden Abdi, Executive director of OWS-DF
- Mr. Abdi Farah, Director of the Health Promotion Directorate, Somali Regional Health Bureau
- Dr Melaku , Gavi TCA project manager, CCRDA
- Ibrahim Hussen and Khadar, Zonal Administrators of Sitti and Fafan, respectively
- Religious leaders, clan representatives, and community influencers
- Woreda Health office heads and EPI focal persons from 25 woredas.
Program Overview
The event began with a ceremonial prayer and blessing led by a respected religious leader, establishing a tone of unity and shared purpose. Following this, Mr. Aden Abdi, Executive Director of OWS-DF, delivered the opening address, extending a warm welcome to all attendees. He expressed gratitude for the commitment demonstrated by all present, acknowledging the essential role of community and religious leaders in promoting health. In his remarks, Mr. Abdi emphasized OWS-DF’s commitment to the Gavi TCA project and highlighted the importance of collaboration to reach vulnerable communities effectively. Concluding his welcome, he invited Mr. Mehamud Abdi, Deputy Head of the Somali Regional Health Bureau, to address the assembly.
Mr Mehamud Abdi, Deputy Head of the Somali Regional Health Bureau, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of immunization in safeguarding the community’s health. Mr. Mahamud thanked the zonal administrators, religious leaders, and clan representatives for their commitment to supporting this vital cause, stressing the responsibility that all participants share in enhancing immunization coverage and preventing vaccine-preventable diseases in the region.
Presentations and Key Highlights
Organizational Overview by OWS-DF
The workshop proceeded with a presentation by Ms. Lamia from OWS-DF, outlining the organization’s vision, mission and its eight thematic focus areas, which include health & nutrition, WASH, peacebuilding, education, Agriculture & food security, shelter & NFI, community protection, and Durable solutions. She also highlighted some of the ongoing projects, demonstrating OWS-DF’s dedication to fostering sustainable development and resilience in the Somali region and southern region of Ethiopia.
Importance of Immunization and project overview
Mr. Arafat Ibrahim, the Regional TA for the Gavi TCA project, delivered a detailed presentation on the global and regional significance of immunization. He provided insights into the global successes achieved through vaccination, outlined the gaps that still exist within the Somali region, and emphasized the critical importance of collaborative action. Mr. Arafat also offered a comprehensive overview of the Gavi TCA project, its specific goals, and its focus on improving immunization equity by targeting underserved communities and hard-to-reach areas within Sitti and Fafan zones.
Role of Technical Advisors in Project Implementation
Following Mr. Arafat, Dr. Melaku presented an in-depth discussion of the roles and responsibilities of the Technical Advisors, both at the regional and zonal levels, within the Gavi TCA project framework. He underscored the importance of proactive micro-planning, robust monitoring, and collaborative engagement with local leaders to ensure immunization services reach every eligible child. Dr. Melaku stressed that the TAs’ work would be pivotal in tracking immunization coverage, identifying zero-dose and under-immunized children, and supporting campaigns to boost vaccine uptake.
Networking Break and Closing Remarks
After a brief tea break that provided an opportunity for informal discussions and networking, the participants gathered for closing remarks. Mr. Abdi Farah, Director of the Health Promotion Directorate at the Somali Regional Health Bureau, delivered the final address. He expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by all attendees, particularly the religious and clan leaders who play a crucial role in fostering community trust and advocating for health initiatives. Mr. Abdi highlighted the bureau’s commitment to collaborating with OWS-DF and other partners to ensure the success of the Gavi TCA project, encouraging all stakeholders to maintain their momentum and dedication as they move forward.
Conclusion and Outcomes
The Gavi TCA Project advocacy and launch workshop concluded with a group photo, symbolizing a shared commitment among all participants to prioritize child health and expand immunization coverage in the Somali region. The workshop served as a strong foundation for the project, bringing together regional authorities, zonal leaders, woreda health office heads, and community influencers in a united effort to eliminate barriers to vaccination.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened Collaboration: The workshop solidified a collaborative network between regional health authorities, zonal administrations, woreda health officials and community leaders, essential for the project’s success.
- Clarity on Project Goals: Presentations clarified the objectives and activities of the Gavi TCA project, highlighting the key roles of the Technical Advisors and their focus on reaching marginalized populations.
- Community Engagement and Support: The involvement of religious and clan leaders underscored the project’s culturally sensitive approach to increasing immunization acceptance and community involvement.
The event was a start to the Gavi TCA project in Sitti and Fafan zones, embodying a shared vision of healthier, vaccine-protected communities across the Somali region.
Conclusion
The Advocacy and project Launching Workshop marked a pivotal and promising start to the Gavi TCA project in Sitti and Fafan zones, exemplifying a strong commitment from all stakeholders to safeguard children’s health and address immunization gaps in the Somali region. The event concluded with a group photo, symbolizing the shared mission and collaborative spirit that will drive the project’s success.
